Softball ends Enka’s undefeated run in WNC

When it comes to rivalries for Roberson Softball, Reynolds and Enka stick out as the ones that matter. And when Roberson beats a team that hasn’t lost to a WNC team in 3 years, it makes for a good day.

“They (Enka) are two-time state champions, back to back, and we haven’t beaten them in five years. So it felt good to be the first team that did that,” junior Caitlin Hodges said.

As of Monday, Apr 24, Enka still boasts the best record in the area at 12-2-0 and are ranked at the top of the conference. The last time Roberson’s softball team beat Enka was in 2013.

This win was exciting for the whole softball team, but according to senior Payton Burke, it was even more special.

“It was amazing to beat Enka. Especially as a senior, this was my last year to try to beat them. So it felt like we had really accomplished something,” Burke said.

Sophomore Sydni Owens said this win was also just the confidence builder they needed, especially with it being so early in the season.

“We have a lot of talent on the team and we have a lot of potential to do well. But beating Enka just really boosted our self esteem,” Owens said.

Junior Syara Owenby said there has been a big change in the team’s momentum since last year.

“Last season we were really up and down. This year, we’re more downhill or uphill. There’s no in between,” Owenby said.

Hodges said that the team has started coming together more and has gained a better understanding of each other.

“Our team has improved because now we’re understanding what each person needs to feel good about their game and what each person needs to be able to perform well. That’s kind of just how it’s been working out,” Hodges said.

Owenby said that this year has had more work put into games and the practices that led up to beating Enka.

“We had to work harder and focus more in practice. And we had to start off with the mindset to win instead of getting it later on in the game,” Owenby said.

Burke also said that their overall teamwork has improved greatly. She believes that was what helped them pull together for the win.

“During that game, we had really good momentum and we came out and played the whole game. So I think it was just more of a team thing. We really came together and beat Enka,” Burke said.